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There’s nothing quite like delving into an unknown story inside of a brand new book. But what if you could find a new adventure every time you opened the cover? That’s exactly what this Raspberry Pi project, created by Erin St Blaine for Adafruit, does and it’s beyond magical. This Raspberry Pi-powered storybook writes new stories on demand using ChatGPT, merging the creative potential of AI with the fun of microelectronics. When you open the cover, you’re met with a touch screen display. It has a microphone integrated that listens for you to say a story prompt out loud. Inside is a Raspberry Pi that processes the speech to text and parses it to Open AI. From there, a new story is written on the spot using your own parameters—much like Roald Dahl’s short story The Great Automatic Grammatizator.In addition to writing stories on the spot, it also has a special prompt file that you can use to edit in specific features. For example, you can create a list of character names that will insert into the stories it creates. You can also choose how long the stories are and even specify a specific writing style for ChatGPT to emulate.For this tutorial, St Blaine recommends using a book that measures in at 8 x 6 x 2.5in. She used a jig saw and drill to hollow out a cavity for the electronics. Inside is a Raspberry Pi 4B with 8GB of RAM, a USB microphone, and a 7-inch touchscreen display. A magnetic contact switch is used to trigger the startup script so it knows when the cover has been opened. Because this project uses OpenAI, it helps to have plenty of processing power so the 8GB Raspberry Pi 4B is an optimal choice but you might get away with a lesser Pi model—as long as it can run the 64-bit version of Raspberry Pi OS. You can find a detailed tutorial on how to recreate this project over at the Adafruit website. This Raspberry Pi project looks great on paper but we definitely recommend checking out the live demo. You can see it in action over at YouTube. https://www.tomshardware.com/news/raspberry-pi-ai-storybook

Zoo animals have reportedly downed after flooding following the explosion of a Soviet-era dam. Footage shared by Ukrainian officials on Twitter shows the rising warer in Kazkova Dibrova zoo. Mayor Volodymyr Kovalenko warned in the early hours of this morning that cafes, playgrounds and the summer theatre were under water. As thousands of people in the Russian occupied Kherson region have been told to evacuate, some animals have been left stranded. Royal Whatsapp Simple ways to save money on your energy bills Russian forces on brink of collapse as soldiers face 'Ukraine syndrome' - expert If you own a mouse, you will never turn off your computer again. Combat Siege China games blowing up warship while US shows off its military might Plus-size model to continue flaunting 44H chest despite being called fat daily by Taboola Urgent plea as zoo animals drown in flood water after Putin destroys Ukrainian dam Water levels in the southern Ukrainian city of Nova Kakhovka continue to rise as a result of the explosion of a Soviet-era dam. By CALLY BROOKS 12:20, Tue, Jun 6, 2023 | UPDATED: 14:20, Tue, Jun 6, 2023 66BOOKMARK Ukraine: Footage from the destruction at Kakhovka dam Zoo animals have reportedly downed after flooding following the explosion of a Soviet-era dam. Footage shared by Ukrainian officials on Twitter shows the rising warer in Kazkova Dibrova zoo. Mayor Volodymyr Kovalenko warned in the early hours of this morning that cafes, playgrounds and the summer theatre were under water. RELATED ARTICLES UK 'vows to respond' after Russia blows up Ukraine power station dam Russia shells Ukrainian city as it is being evacuated after dam blown up As thousands of people in the Russian occupied Kherson region have been told to evacuate, some animals have been left stranded. Sponsored Remote Health by SafetyWing Tips for Tackling Remote Burnout and Boosting Productivity by Taboola According to one person on Twitter, staff were unable to evacuate animals from the zoo. Another video shows a police officer carefully maneuvering rising waters to rescue a dog. The dog's head can be seen just inches above the stream as the officer attempts to pick it up. Swans have also been captured swimming around the city’s administrative centre. Residents have been urged not to abandon pets on chains or in cages during the evacuation as more pictures emerge of struggling animals. Water from the destroyed Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant dam is now making its way down the Dnipro. People living among the banks report that at some points the levels have already reached the top of trees. The blown up barrier, located on the river, formed a reservoir that supplies water for drinking, agriculture and the cooling of the nearby Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1777876/zoo-animals-drown-ukraine-dam-russia-attack

Shelby American is continuing the long tradition of naming things after Carroll Shelby with the creation of more specially tuned creations. The performance outfitter kicked off the year with the introduction of a 750-hp Centennial Edition Mustang. In a slight twist, the newest creation built to honor the late Shelby is an F-150–based performance truck, capable of producing up to 800 horsepower. Based on the 2023 F-150 Lariat 4x4 SuperCrew, the Centennial Edition comes standard with the same naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V-8 that comes optional on the standard Ford model. That's kind of boring, so Shelby also added an optional supercharger system complete with a performance air intake with high flow filter, aluminum heat exchanger and a billet throttle body with high-flow fuel injectors. The optional system brings total output to a much more reasonable 800 horsepower. Opting for either engine configuration will equip the Centennial Edition with a Borla cat-back exhaust system to snort exhaust fumes out the black dual exhaust pipes at the back.Not satisfied with an exhaust system and supercharger, the Shelby team fit the Centennial with Fox shocks that have adjustable dual speed controls. According to Shelby, the system allows the shocks to be adjusted from better off-road capability, to better track handling, and even to a more luxurious ride. Off-road capability is also aided by upgraded brakes that now live within a set of 22-inch alloy wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain KO2 tires.The interior is updated as well, and now has two-tone leather upholstery complete with Centennial Edition logos. Shelby Centennial floor mats, billet racing pedals, and tinted windows complete the rest of the interior, with the official Shelby serial number printed on a plaque on the dash.Naturally, Shelby will only make 100 examples of the truck to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its founder's birth. The base 400-hp version carries a starting price of $129,495, while the supercharged truck starts at $138,495. The trucks come with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty, which includes the powertrain and still allows for stock features like over-the-air updates and the onboard generator. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a44104304/2023-ford-f-150-shelby-centennial-revealed/

Many of us have been advised to take multivitamins to meet several nutritional requirements. But have you ever wondered if it is the way to go? Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, po[CENSORED]r as The Liver Doc on Twitter, recently claimed on the platform that there “is no point of taking a multivitamin. In fact, there is no point in a multivitamin at all.” Considering that popping pills has become commonplace, we reached out to experts to understand the role of multivitamins and whether they are needed at all. Notably, according to Healthline.com, multivitamins are supplements that contain many different vitamins and minerals, sometimes alongside other ingredients, and given that there is no standard for what constitutes a multivitamin, their nutrient composition varies by brand and product. Are multivitamins really worth taking? Dr Adrita Banerjee, consultant physician, Godrej Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, said essential multivitamins and micronutrients are extremely beneficial for maintaining health and preventing disease. “Vitamin A helps with vision, Vitamin C helps in building immunity, Vitamin E helps prevent nerve damage, Vitamin B-complex is a source of nerve regeneration as well as energy, Vitamin D is essential for bone health and Vitamin K helps in clotting of the blood,” Dr Banerjee said. “These vitamins and essential micronutrients are present in diet, and natural sources of food can help us in gaining them in the body. But the ample amount we require as a daily dietary allowance will be achieved only after consuming a balanced diet,” she said. According to Dr Banerjee, too much or too little of these vitamins and micronutrients can be equally harmful to the body. “Hence if people are consuming a balanced diet and are meeting their required dietary allowance through natural sources, they may not require additional supplementation. In case dietary sources are inadequate, only then should they be taking multivitamin supplementation,” said Dr Banerjee. Suvidhi Jain, lifestyle, exercise, and nutrition coach and founder of ‘LEAN by Suvidhi’ told indianexpress.com that it is important to understand that a multivitamin cannot compensate for a bad diet. “It is important to emphasise that if you maintain a good and balanced diet, there is generally no need for a multivitamin. Real food is king, and the foremost focus should be on obtaining all necessary micronutrients through your diet,” said Jain. However, some people may have medical conditions or lifestyle factors that increase their nutrient requirements or affect nutrient absorption. “In such cases, a healthcare provider may recommend specific supplements, including a multivitamin, to address any deficiencies and ensure optimal nutrient intake. For example, individuals with specific dietary restrictions, such as vegans or vegetarians, may find it more challenging to obtain certain nutrients solely from plant-based sources,” described Jain. Furthermore, if you are on a prolonged calorie deficit, a multivitamin may be helpful in supporting your micronutrient requirements, said Jain. “However, it is crucial to ensure the quality of the multivitamin you choose. Many multivitamins contain cheap compounds with low absorption rates in the body, which can limit their effectiveness. Therefore, it is important to select high-quality multivitamins to ensure optimal nutrient absorption,” said Jain. According to Jain, it is also important to note that specific vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K, are fat-soluble and can accumulate in the body, potentially leading to toxicity if taken in excess. “In comparison, vitamins B and C are water-soluble, and any excess amounts are easily flushed out of the body, reducing the risk of toxicity,” said Jain. Additionally, micronutrients are required in very small quantities, usually in micrograms or milligrams. “Thus, it is crucial to be aware of the quantities of nutrients you consume and consider the bioavailability of the sources. Different sources of the same nutrient may vary in how well they are absorbed by the body, so selecting foods or supplements with higher bioavailability can be beneficial,” said Jain. Always remember to consult a healthcare provider before incorporating any supplements into your diet. They can provide personalised guidance based on your specific needs and ensure that any supplements you take are safe and suitable for you. Jain shared, “It is important to prioritise a well-rounded and balanced diet as the foundation for meeting your nutritional needs.” https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/no-need-for-multivitamins-nutrition-experts-balanced-diet-benefits-8648191/

Thousands are fleeing floods caused by a breach in a dam in Russian-occupied Ukraine. The UN aid chief warned of "grave and far-reaching consequences" for people in southern Ukraine - as both sides continue to blame each other. In Kherson city, our special correspondent Alex Crawford has been witnessing a rescue operation after severe flooding hit the area overnight. The city is around about 60 km (37 miles) downstream from the collapsed Kakhovka dam and is one of many that has seen its streets become inundated with water. "The rescue operation is at full pelt in Kherson city in south Ukraine after residents woke to find the waters had risen by about four to five feet in places," Crawford said. "There are a lot more troops here plus volunteers and rescue services bringing boats to help out. "We saw at least two people in wheelchairs being lifted out of the rescue boats. "They're going in and picking out mainly elderly or vulnerable people. "We could walk down this street yesterday. Now you can't get down it unless you are in a boat." She explained that people who live in the second and third floors of buildings have woken up this morning to find the water has risen that high. "There's a bit of pace going on now to try to reach them as quickly as possible and bring them all out," she said. The attack on the Kakhovka dam has created a "very big humanitarian catastrophe" and shows an attempt by Russia to use a weapon of mass destruction, the co-founder of an organisation calling for Ukrainian victory has said. The collapsed dam, which is in Russian-occupied Kherson, has caused severe flooding in several areas along the Dnipro river, and thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes. Speaking to Sky News, Olena Halushka said the situation was "very critical" and water levels were going to keep rising for the next few days. Evacuations have been taking place by Ukrainian authorities in the affected towns and cities, but Ms Halushka said Russia was failing to do the same in occupied areas. "The evacuation we know is not happening from the Russian-occupied parts because the occupation administration simply do not care," she said. Russia and Ukraine have blamed each other for the blast, with US intelligence suggesting Moscow is the culprit. Asked why Russia would attack the dam, Ms Halushka said: "If they understand that the Ukrainian counteroffensive is coming they would want to try to stop it by all the means. "If they are going to retreat, they will simply leave behind destroyed earth." She added: "The Russians did this to the dam and they definitely tried to stop the counteroffensive by doing that, but I don't think they will be successful." "This is the attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction." As you know by now, a huge dam in the Russian-occupied Kherson region was severely damaged yesterday, causing fierce flooding and thousands of people to leave their homes. The satellite images below taken show the extent of the flooding in towns and villages along the Dnipro river so far. Around 42,000 people are at risk from flooding in areas along the Dnipro River after the Kakhovka dam collapse yesterday, Ukrainian officials have said. Their estimate came as the UN aid chief warned of "grave and far-reaching consequences" for people in southern Ukraine as a result of the breach. Martin Griffiths told the Security Council that the destruction could cause people to lose their "homes, food, safe water and livelihoods". "The sheer magnitude of the catastrophe will only become fully realised in the coming days," he said. No deaths were initially reported, but US spokesperson John Kirby said the flooding had probably caused "many deaths". Ukrainian officials said they expect flooding to peak today. Ukraine and Russia blame each other for the collapse of the massive dam, which sent floodwaters across a swathe of Ukraine's war zone and forced thousands to flee. US intelligence suggested Russia was behind the blast. In Kherson city, about 60 km (37 miles) downstream from the dam, water levels rose by 3.5m (11.5ft) yesterday, forcing residents to slog through water up to their knees to evacuate. At least one person has been killed and another injured in a Russian shelling attack on the Kherson, the Ukrainian governor of the region has said. The attack came as thousands of people across the southern region fled their homes to avoid flooding caused by the destruction of a major dam in Nova Kakhovka yesterday. A total of 29 shells were fired in the city of Kherson, Oleksandr Prokudin said on Telegram. It would be a "new low" for Russia if Vladimir Putin's forces are found to be responsible for the attack on a Ukrainian dam which has led to widespread flooding, according to Rishi Sunak. The prime minister was speaking to the press aboard a flight to the United States as he prepares to meet with US President Joe Biden for the fourth time in four months. US intelligence is "leaning towards" Moscow being behind the damage to the Kakhovka dam in the Kherson region of Ukraine, according to NBC. Russian media reported that half of the dam's 3.2km span have been destroyed, and that 22,000 people in the Kherson region have been impacted so far. Mr Sunak was asked what UK intelligence says, and whether attacks on critical infrastructure should be treated in the same way as using weapons of mass destruction. He said: "Our military and intelligence agencies are currently looking at it - it's too soon to pre-empt that and make a definitive judgement. "But what I can say is if it's intentional, it would represent, I think, the largest attack on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine since the start of the war, and just demonstrates the new lows that we would have seen from Russian aggression. "Attacks on civilian infrastructure are appalling and wrong. https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-russia-war-latest-dam-flood-counteroffensive-wagner-putin-12541713

Bitcoin on Tuesday recorded a significant 5.08 percent drop in value to trade at its lowest price in three months since March. The value of the most widely used cryptocurrency currently stands at $25,642 (roughly Rs. 21 lakh), after having incurred consistent losses over the past few days. Bitcoin's performance, over the past week has not been very impressive, especially when the cryptocurrency's moving averages are being influenced by the ‘sell' sentiment. Meanwhile the US SEC has sued Binance over all;eged legal violations, another reason why Bitcoin has seen a notable drop in value over the last 24 hours. Ether outperformed Bitcoin in terms of retaining value on Tuesday. After incurring a loss of 3.10 percent, ETH is trading at $1,811 (roughly Rs. 1.49 lakh), according to the crypto price tracker by Gadgets 360. Both, Bitcoin and Ether are facing the impact of the SEC vs Binance debacle, resulting in price drops for most altcoins. “The crypto fear and greed index has fallen by nine points leading to its entry into the fear zone for the first time in nearly three months. This could be attributed to the latest accusations by the SEC against Binance of its failure to comply with US Securities law. The SEC's lawsuit has explicitly called out several po[CENSORED]r coins like SOL, ADA, MATIC as securities causing their price to significantly fall,” Shubham Hudda, Senior Manager, CoinSwitch Markets Desk told Gadgets 360. Similarly, digital currencies like Polkadot, Avalanche, Shiba Inu, Cosmos, Leo, Chainlink, and Uniswap also became less valuable, just like BTC and ETH. The overall valuation of the crypto sector slipped by 3.75 percent over the last 24 hours. The capitalisation of the digital assets sector, at the time of writing, stands at $1.09 trillion (roughly Rs. 90,13,908 crore), as per CoinMarketCap data. “With a continued delay in establishing concrete laws for crypto organisations, the lawmakers are creating a hostile environment for companies operating in the space and making it suitable for them to move business abroad. Memecoins seemed to have started creating a new buzz in the last few days, contributing to high gas fee on Ethereum,” Rajagopal Menon, Vice President, WazirX told Gadgets 360. Stablecoins managed to record small gains, unlike most cryptocurrencies. Tether, USD Coin, and Binance USD recorded minor gains. Dogefi, Bitcoin Hedge, Floki Inu, Husky, and Nano Dogecoin also saw small increases in value. “Meanwhile, metaverse tokens such as MANA, SAND, Enjin Coin, and AXS token have witnessed an increase in value. The primary factor driving this rise is the anticipation surrounding Apple's WWDC Conference. Speculation suggests that the event will feature the unveiling of Apple's virtual reality set, which will mark the company's most significant product move towards Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR),” the CoinDCX research team told Gadgets 360. “Interestingly, JPMorgan Chase & Co. has also initiated a pilot project in collaboration with leading private lenders in India for interbank dollar transaction settlements. The pilot project involves prominent Indian banks including HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Yes Bank, and IndusInd Bank. Its objective is to facilitate real-time transaction settlements, even during weekends and public holidays. This move is one of the biggest applications of blockchain technology and adoption of Web3 in India's ecosystem,” the CoinDCX team noted. https://www.gadgets360.com/cryptocurrency/news/bitcoin-price-today-ether-cryptocurrencies-price-fall-losses-binance-us-crypto-chart-4097938

I am not a proud man. Earlier this year, I spent $4 in Resident Evil 4 so America's Boyfriend Leon Scott Kennedy could have a cute little bomber jacket with skulls and stuff on the back⁠—not my finest moment, but there's no undoing what's done. Earlier in my life I'm sure you could say I spent "too much" money on Destiny and League of Legends cosmetics, but that's all beside the point. When I saw the $20+ premium skins offered in Diablo 4's in-game storefront, another of the few remaining youthful, optimistic parts of my soul quietly gave up the ghost. As Geralt of Rivia put it, it was a "last bitter drop in a chalice full of sorrow."I felt something similar when I saw the full scroll of cosmetic DLC for RE4 unfurl before its release: not anger, just a resigned disappointment. With Diablo 4, even though "The Death Toll prestige equipment cosmetic" for Barbarians can't hurt me, it still made me sigh. "The Wraith Lord" armor pack for Necromancers is not real, but its existence weighs on my psyche. If I close my eyes, "The Weight of Gold" premium mount will still be there when I open them again. This stuff just feels so goddamn tacky, the game you already paid at least $70 for becoming yet another horizon fully colonized by advertisements. Turn that monitor into one giant billboard, baby.What's more is I think paid armor cosmetics undermine Diablo's whole loop. Resident Evil 4 having its best outfits made into DLC instead of unlockables for its alternate modes and difficulty configurations was bad enough, but Diablo is a series all about the measured drip feed of rewards, cranking out hour after hour for your deluge of color-coded drops. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. Home Features Action Diablo 4 Diablo 4's $21 Bone Guy armor is just another reminder of how numb we've gotten to Microtransaction Hell By Ted Litchfield published about 8 hours ago I will not buy the bones! COMMENTS Diablo 4 barbarian armor with skulls and gold on it that retails for $20 (Image credit: Activision Blizzard) I am not a proud man. Earlier this year, I spent $4 in Resident Evil 4 so America's Boyfriend Leon Scott Kennedy could have a cute little bomber jacket with skulls and stuff on the back⁠—not my finest moment, but there's no undoing what's done. Earlier in my life I'm sure you could say I spent "too much" money on Destiny and League of Legends cosmetics, but that's all beside the point. When I saw the $20+ premium skins offered in Diablo 4's in-game storefront, another of the few remaining youthful, optimistic parts of my soul quietly gave up the ghost. As Geralt of Rivia put it, it was a "last bitter drop in a chalice full of sorrow." Imposing view of horse in death metal armor $14 Horse. (Image credit: Activision Blizzard) I felt something similar when I saw the full scroll of cosmetic DLC for RE4 unfurl before its release: not anger, just a resigned disappointment. With Diablo 4, even though "The Death Toll prestige equipment cosmetic" for Barbarians can't hurt me, it still made me sigh. "The Wraith Lord" armor pack for Necromancers is not real, but its existence weighs on my psyche. If I close my eyes, "The Weight of Gold" premium mount will still be there when I open them again. This stuff just feels so goddamn tacky, the game you already paid at least $70 for becoming yet another horizon fully colonized by advertisements. Turn that monitor into one giant billboard, baby. Sponsored Links Tips for Tackling Remote Burnout and Boosting Productivity Remote Health by SafetyWing What's more is I think paid armor cosmetics undermine Diablo's whole loop. Resident Evil 4 having its best outfits made into DLC instead of unlockables for its alternate modes and difficulty configurations was bad enough, but Diablo is a series all about the measured drip feed of rewards, cranking out hour after hour for your deluge of color-coded drops. RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU... CLOSE If you're an additional $20 in the hole for the Deathspell Omega premium skin or whatever that you're going to slap on all the gear you find, where's the magic or joy in actually winning that loot? You can only pay for cosmetic armor upgrades, not better stats, but the idea that in-game stores are meaningless if they only sell cosmetic stuff just isn't true: finding cool-looking loot is part of the fun in games like Diablo. There's something so incongruous to making your awful, low-level crap look like high level swag. "Why is my bad ass, endgame-looking weapon so crappy," you may say of your reskinned "level one iron battleaxe for losers." And even as you upgrade it, you're stuck with that skin the whole game, no variety or progression. Can you ever take it off? How many hours of gameplay with a premium cosmetic makes the money worth it? Not to mention what your purchase communicates to other players⁠—it has a sort of "Twitter Blue" problem in that you're telling everyone around you that you spent $20 on a signifier that you spent $20. Level one Barbarians are supposed to wear poop tier studded leather and fight with a lead stick, not go galavanting around in a matching gold filigree ensemble! Wearing your premium skin armor at low levels has the energy of showing up to high school in designer streetwear your parents bought you. "I am a lily-livered little fancy man, please take my lunch money." I just find the trend so tacky and wearisome from toe to tip, but it ain't going anywhere, because it sells. In fact, it has been selling. I remember eight years ago when a good friend of mine and I discovered the Palomino Horse DLC for The Elder Scrolls Online. This normal-ass horse, a literal beige horse could be had for 900 crowns⁠—that's nearly ten godless capitalist American dollars, for a normal horse! Forget the armor even! But I'm just another old man yelling at a cloud, and even I, Mr. "This empty greedy grasping for my wallet makes me want to hurl" dropped $4 on that embarrassing Leon Kennedy streetwear skin. I have the good sense to be embarrassed about it, and what's more I'd be so much happier if it'd been an in-game reward like the unlockable costumes of yore, but I guess game publishers don't really care if we're embarrassed about it, or if it harms a game's design, so long as we're spending money. https://www.pcgamer.com/diablo-4s-dollar21-bone-guy-armor-is-just-another-reminder-of-how-numb-weve-gotten-to-microtransaction-hell/

Microsoft’s Bing AI is about to appear in all major web browsers according to a new report. This comes from Windows Latest, which tells us that according to sources, the Bing chatbot will no longer be exclusive to Edge, but will be available in Chrome, Safari, and Firefox – all the main browsers – at some point this week (in a few days apparently). Take that with a pinch of seasoning, naturally, but we already heard from Mikhail Parakhin, Microsoft’s head of Advertising and Web Services, last week, who informed us that “hopefully” the first experiments in enabling third-party browsers would be happening soon.So, it seems that hope is now a reality, or is about to become one, with Windows Latest further reporting that Microsoft actually tested Bing AI in Apple’s Safari browser over the past weekend. If you blinked, you’d have missed this, though, as the test was a brief one. Windows Latest also received an email through, apparently sent to some Bing AI mobile users, which mentions new features inbound for the AI. That includes the idea of “characters with personalities in Bing AI”, meaning a more in-depth choice than the simple creative, precise, or balanced personalities that currently grace the chatbot. Microsoft is also planning to lift some restrictions, we’re told, so that could mean longer chat sessions with Bing AI are on the way, perhaps. Windows Latest actually got to use Bing AI in the Safari test, and reports that it’s much the same experience as using the chatbot in Microsoft’s Edge browser. That’s pretty much what we’d expect, of course – there’s no reason it would be meaningfully different. As we’ve discussed previously, it makes more sense for Microsoft to focus on driving usage of the Bing chatbot, than it does to use the bot as a lure to get people to switch to the Edge browser. Yes, Edge is doubtless very important to Microsoft, but having its AI outgun Google’s Bard is surely a far more important consideration. And so having Bing AI in all the big browsers will help to that end, though we weren’t expecting this to happen quite as soon as this week. That would clearly indicate this is a real priority for Microsoft. As for the idea of more varied personalities, this was something hinted at before in the very early days of Bing AI. Windows Latest points to leaked personalities that include ‘friendly’ and ‘sarcastic’ modes, though in the latter case, we’re skeptical as to whether this might be in the works. Granted, sarcastic mode would be entertaining, certainly. But when folks have tried to get entertainment out of Bing AI in the past, pushing its buttons and boundaries, Microsoft has done its best to limit the chatbot’s more off-the-wall responses, and we’re not sure we see that changing anytime soon. https://www.techradar.com/news/microsofts-bing-ai-chatbot-spotted-in-safari-and-chrome-with-new-features

If you are in the market for a new AMD Radeon GPU or Ryzen CPU, now might be the best time to make the plunge. AMD has launched a new game bundle that gives gamers a free copy of Resident Evil 4 when purchasing a qualifying Radeon RX 6000 or RX 7000 series desktop GPU or a laptop equipped with the same generation GPUs. You can also get a $50 discount on the Ryzen 9 7900X3D. On top of this, AMD is also extending its Star Wars Jedi: Survivor CPU bundle to June 30th, giving you the opportunity to get two free AAA games with the purchase of a qualifying Ryzen CPU and Radeon GPU. As an extension of the company's current CPU deals, AMD is also offering a $50 discount on its Ryzen 9 7900X3D 12-core CPU, with game-enhancing 3D-VCache technology. If you take full advantage of AMD's game bundles and CPU discounts present right now, you can get up to $180 in value with the two games, in conjunction with the 7900X3D discount.The Jedi: Survivor bundle will come with AMD's entire lineup of current Ryzen 7000 and 7000 X3D CPUs, including the Ryzen 5 7600 series, 7700 series, 7900 series, as well as the 3D-VCache equipped 7800X3D, 7900X3D, and 7950X3D. To get in on AMD's new Resident Evil 4 bundle you will need to buy one of AMD's qualifying desktop GPUs, or gaming laptops equipped with a qualified mobile GPU. Qualified products include the following: RX 6600S, RX 6650 XT, RX 6700M, RX 6700, RX 6700 XT, RX 6750 XT, RX 6800, RX 6800S, RX 6850M XT, RX 6800 XT, RX 6900 XT, RX 6950 XT, RX 7600, RX 7600M XT, RX 7600S, RX 7700S, RX 7900 XT, and RX 7900 XTX. The Resident Evil 4 version in AMD's new bundle, is the latest remake of the 2005 game that recently came out in March 2023. The game is a story-driven survivor-horror action game that takes you on a wild adventure to save the president's kidnapped daughter from a secluded European village full of unusual locals. All of AMD's current bundles and discounts will be live for the next 25 to 26 days. The Ryzen 9 7900X3D and Resident Evil 4 GPU bundle will be available until July 1st. The Star Wars Jedi: Survivor CPU bundle will be available until June 30th. https://www.tomshardware.com/news/amd-resident-evil-4-gpu-extends-jedi-survivor

Mr Christensen said south-west Queensland was a target for the "cruel and highly lucrative business". Intercepts have included rice cookers bound for China by Australia Post that were packed with juvenile lizards, including an albino blue tongue, bearded dragons and shinglebacks from south-west Queensland. The reptiles … had been placed inside socks or cloth packaging with elastic binding their legs to their bodies, preventing them from moving," Mr Christensen said. "Thankfully, these animals did not enter the black market, but they cannot be released into the wild because we don't know where they were captured or if they were exposed to disease." With a po[CENSORED]tion of less than 20, Hungerford in far south-western Queensland has become a prime site for smugglers, according to local police officer-in-charge Lea Macken. The town is almost completely surrounded by Currawinya National Park, one of Queensland's largest land-based national parks, and Senior Constable Macken keeps an eye out for suspicious vehicles. "They are usually a van or a station wagon that has been gutted, so they have plenty of room and have got sacks or bags or nets, along with long poles or poles with forks on the end," she said. "Most vehicles travelling out here have a lot of gear, water bottles, tents, backpacks and swags, but these guys want to get around as lightly as possible, and they're in and out nice and quick." The illegal trade in animals across the world is big business. The United Nations estimates illegal wildlife and forestry crime in East Asia and the Pacific is worth $30 billion annually. Mr Christensen said reptiles sold on the international market regularly sold for five to 10 times what they were worth domestically, and often fetched as much as 28 times that. "These attempts are sophisticated operations, and they [the reptiles] are fetching big money," he said. But for those who get caught, the penalties are severe. If convicted, offenders face up to ten years in jail or $275,000, or both, for each offence. "The Australian Government remains resolute in its efforts to tackle illegal wildlife trade," a spokesman for the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water said. In 2020, 127 Australian species were listed for inclusion on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) list, which is an international agreement that sets out how international wildlife trade is regulated. Exporting Australian native species generally requires a permit, and the more threatened a species is, the tighter the controls. Mr Christensen said the illegal trafficking of animals was a cruel process. "The animals are bound, packed tightly, with no access to food, water or clean air for their international journey," he said. Shinglebacks lizards, often referred to internationally, as the pine cone lizards, due to their scales, remain the most targeted lizard in south-west Queensland. Police have advised anyone who witnesses suspicious activity to try to get the vehicle’s registration and call the police, or the Queensland Department of Environment on 1300 130 372. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-06-05/animal-traffickers-target-native-reptiles-south-west-queensland/102413798

As Chevy prepares to open orders for the sixth-generation Camaro's final model year, it's releasing a special Collector's Edition version of the muscle car. The 2024 Camaro Collector's Edition is an option package that brings special visuals including black paint, badging, different wheels, and other extras. It's available for the coupe and convertible and on the 1LT, LT, and 1SS trim levels; the supercharged ZL1 gets its own extra-special Collector's Edition that will be limited to 350 units.The standard Collector's Edition package, which costs $4995 for the 1LT, $5495 for the LT1, and $5995 for the 1SS, brings Panther Black metallic paint, black stripes, 20-inch black wheels, the front splitter from the 1LE performance package, and—on coupes at least—the ZL1's rear spoiler. Chevy is highlighting that the Camaro's original code name was Panther (not to be confused with Ford's Panther platform, of course) by integrating Panther graphics into the Camaro badges on the doors and onto the steering wheel. There are also special floor mats and a welcome kit that includes two Camaro posters. For significantly more money, the ZL1's Collector's Edition upgrades include Panther Matte Black paint, a serialized badge notating which number the car is in the run of 350 units. Purchase of a ZL1 also includes a special Shinola watch meant to match the car. For the 1LT and LT1 trims, choosing the Collector's Edition also requires adding the RS package. This puts the all-in prices for coupe models at $39,440 for the 1LT Collector's edition, $47,385 for the LT1 Collector's Edition, $49,890 for the 1SS Collector's Edition, and $89,990 for the ZL1 Collector's Edition. Chevy is also dropping the Camaro's available turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four base engine for 2024. This leaves the 335-hp 3.6-liter V-6, the 455-hp 6.2-liter V-8, and of course the ZL1's 650-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V-8. Base prices rise accordingly, to $32,495 for the LT coupe and $38,495 for the LT convertible. Orders for the 2024 model open June 15, and production will end in January 2024. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a44095195/2024-chevy-camaro-collectors-edition-revealed/

Owing to their numerous health benefits, eggs are a po[CENSORED]r breakfast option and are enjoyed scrambled, poached, as a filling, or as an omelet. But there are some people who also consume (rather drink) raw eggs, especially egg whites, to meet their protein requirements. But is it advisable? Answering the same, Karishma Shah, an integrative nutritionist and health coach, said that while egg white contains mainly protein, the yolk contains both proteins and good fats. Thus, it is important to have the whole egg, instead of skipping one portion of it. “However, having raw egg whites has seen a rise recently, especially among bodybuilders, those looking to lose weight or increase their protein intake as it is believed that raw egg whites provide more nutrition. This is false as raw egg whites can lead to salmonella, a common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. It is recommended to cook eggs as it prevents such problems as well as improves digestion.” Adding N Lakshmi, Senior Dietician, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad said that having raw eggs, especially the whites, can also lead to a condition called egg-white injury, or biotin deficiency. “Raw egg whites contain a protein called avidin that prevents the body from absorbing biotin, a B-vitamin. This can result in a lack of biotin and cause different symptoms,” she told indianexpress.com.Nidhi Gupta, a sports nutritionist, too, took to Instagram and wrote, “Egg white contains an anti-nutrient called avidin. Avidin binds to the B vitamin biotin, preventing its absorption. So, it should never be consumed raw. This is called egg white injury.” Adding, she said that due to excessive consumption of raw eggs, mainly egg whites, protein avidin (anti-nutrients) binds with biotin and inactivates it. “Cooked egg white is found not to be toxic since avidin is heat liable and boiling inactivates avidin. 1 molecule of avidin binds 4 molecules of biotin,” she noted. ALSO READ | From promoting brain health to keeping heart diseases at bay: The many health benefits of eggs Further, Gupta shared that deficiencies can be caused by consuming raw egg whites over period of weeks to months. “Egg whites contain high levels of avidin, a protein that binds biotin strongly. When cooked, avidin is partially denatured and binding to biotin is reduced. Biotin deficiency is a nutritional disorder which can become serious, even fatal, if allowed to progress untreated. Talking about its symptoms, Lakshmi said, “It can vary and may include skin reactions such as itching, hives or eczema. Respiratory symptoms can include a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Digestive disturbances like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or diarrhea are also possible. In rare cases, anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, may occur, leading to breathing difficulties, decreased blood pressure, rapid pulse, dizziness and fainting.” As such, she suggested cooking eggs thoroughly before consuming them. Moreover, consuming raw egg whites is not recommended due to the potential risk of foodborne diseases.“Raw eggs may contain Salmonella bacteria, which can cause food poisoning. Cooking eggs eliminates these harmful bacteria, minimising the risk of infection. Additionally, cooking also alters the proteins present in egg whites, reducing the likelihood of inducing allergic reactions. Individuals with egg-white injury syndrome should completely avoid raw egg whites to prevent allergic reactions and ensure their safety,” Lakshmi concluded. https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/raw-egg-whites-health-risks-biotin-deficiency-8639118/

As Beijing boosts its diplomatic clout, analysts say it wants to “remould” and even supplant existing global institutions. Ever since China abandoned its zero-COVID policy at the end of last year, Beijing has been involved in a flurry of engagements from East to West. A summit in India’s Goa, military drills in Singapore and South Africa, visits by the German chancellor and the French president as well as Chinese President Xi Jinping’s own visits to Russia and Saudi Arabia are just a few examples of Beijing’s recent whirlwind diplomacy. And while Western leaders have talked about decoupling or de-risking economic ties with China, the nation remains deeply integrated with the world economy and is the largest trading partner of more than 120 countries. Long gone are the days when China was an isolated loner or the Chinese government seemed satisfied with observing world affairs quietly from the sidelines. Now, Beijing is reaching for the diplomatic status that matches its position as the world’s second-biggest economy. In a speech at a United Nations conference held to mark the 50-year anniversary of the People’s Republic of China’s joining the UN, Xi addressed China’s diplomatic rise and spoke of Beijing’s commitment to a world order defined by the pursuit of peace, democracy and human rights as well as the rejection of unilateralism, foreign interference and power politics. In mid-March, at a so-called dialogue meeting between global political parties in Beijing, Xi reinforced his commitment to the same principles.In his keynote speech, Xi introduced the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) as a way of formalising these principles with the added purpose of encouraging countries to “fully harness the relevance of their histories and cultures” and “appreciate the perceptions of values by different civilizations and refrain from imposing their own values or models on others”.With the previously proposed Global Development Initiative (GDI) and Global Security Initiative (GSI), the GCI appears to encapsulate – although in amorphous terms – much of the Chinese president’s overall vision for a new international order. Yao Yuan Yeh teaches Chinese Studies at the University of St Thomas in the United States. According to him, such an order would partly supplant and partly remould the international system into a new set of structures that better align with the worldview of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). “It would be a world order that does not constrain communist China but contributes to its rise,” he said. An alternative narrative The purpose of the dialogue meeting in March was, to some extent, to act as a Chinese counterpart to the Summit for Democracy that the United States held for a second time that month as part of an effort to rally the world’s democracies. While leaders from Mongolia, Serbia and South Africa were invited to both events, the US summit mostly included traditional Washington allies, while the gathering in Beijing included leaders from Kazakhstan, Russia, Sudan and Venezuela. The Chinese leadership and state media portrayed the CCP’s dialogue meeting as part of China’s vision of embracing countries across the world, which includes maintaining or even deepening diplomatic contact with nations like Russia and Myanmar. The Chinese government’s willingness to engage with a variety of world actors has indeed been on display in recent months. Chinese diplomacy played a role in the rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia in March. Also in March, the Chinese foreign minister visited Myanmar coup leader Min Aung Hlaing, while Xi travelled to Moscow to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. In April, Xi held a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and, last month, his envoy attempted to build support for a Beijing-led plan to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. Beijing has also been mentioned as a potential peace broker in conflict-ravaged Sudan. Andy Mok, a senior research fellow at the Beijing-based Center for China and Globalization, says the Chinese approach to international relations is defined by a live-and-let-live mindset. “It is less defined by shared values and more defined by a shared future,” he told Al Jazeera. That means that while Western countries sometimes condition interactions and cooperation on adherence to a set of values, China wants to base its engagements on the potential for development and future benefits, Mok said. The policy largely follows a CCP conviction that development and prosperity do not have to lead to adopting these – so-called Western – values. The Chinese leadership has frequently criticised “certain countries” for supposedly imposing their principles onto others and lacking respect for the ways non-Western nations with different cultures and traditions run their affairs. Beijing’s world order would be defined by multipolarity, according to Mok, who says China has no plan to be a dominant power. “I don’t see a change in the world order being a case of a new boss simply replacing the old boss.” Reconfiguring the existing world order Although the Chinese leadership regularly opposes the imposition of Western values, this does not mean Beijing wants to discard democracy, human rights and the rule of law on the global stage, according to the Chinese government. Using China as an example, Xi has claimed that China is “democratic” because the CCP and the state represent the people and run the country on behalf of the people to promote the will of the people. Chinese state media have insisted that liberal democracies neglect the needs of the people by measuring democracy “only” on the basis of electoral cycles. Beijing also points to its poverty alleviation and strategy against COVID-19 as examples of the government’s commitment to human rights. “They see these values as more relative terms and have in their own view provided a more inclusive definition of them with freedom from hunger and freedom from fear for your life being seen as examples of more basic human rights,” Mok said. The modern understanding of human rights can be traced back to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which details a set of basic rights and freedoms seen as inherent, inalienable and applicable to all people. Adopted in the early years of the UN, the rights were enshrined into the foundation of the international system. Since then, more than 70 human rights treaties have sprouted from the UDHR, many of which have been signed and ratified by China. Trying to reinterpret the language on human rights and democracy is therefore not something to be taken lightly, according to Elaine Pearson, the director of the Asia division of the rights organisation Human Rights Watch (HRW). “It is not up to individual states to redefine human rights as they like,” Pearson told Al Jazeera. “Totalitarian North Korea also calls itself the Democratic People’s Republic of North Korea – simply saying something doesn’t make it true.” HRW warned in 2020 that Beijing was trying to bring about change within the UN, not only by trying to redefine established principles but also by hampering investigations and diluting condemnations of human rights abuses around the world. Its efforts come at a time when international NGOs and UN bodies have expressed deep concern about the violation of basic freedoms and rights in China. Beijing has fired back at such concerns. When a UN report was released last year detailing possible “crimes against humanity” by the Chinese state against the mostly Muslim Uighurs in the far western Xinjiang region, Beijing responded with a report of its own. It accused alleged anti-China forces in the US and other Western countries of feigning concern for human rights and claimed they wanted to use the Uighur issue to “destabilise Xinjiang and suppress China”. A vote in October at the UN’s Human Rights Council to debate the issue, however, was narrowly defeated. Following the vote, human rights group Amnesty International accused the council of failing to uphold its core mission: protecting the victims of human rights violations everywhere. “The Chinese government has gained more global influence in recent years and has been able to turn that influence into a greater sway at established international institutions,” Liselotte Odgaard, a professor of China Relations at the Norwegian Institute for Defence Studies, told Al Jazeera. Additionally, Beijing has used its veto power in the UN Security Council to block resolutions and statements condemning the military coup in Myanmar and hinder new sanctions on North Korea, while abstaining from condemnation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Besides developing a greater say in traditional global institutions, Beijing has also founded new institutions to further its credibility as an international player. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB), the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Silk Road Fund have all been spearheaded by China, have headquarters in China and have been called alternatives to established global institutions such as the UN, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. But they should not necessarily be seen as an attempt by Beijing to replace existing international institutions, according to St Thomas’s Yeh. As UN cases show, Beijing has channelled considerable effort into reshaping established institutions as well. At the same time, China is the second-biggest donor of funds to the UN and one of only five members of the security council with permanent veto powers. “We are seeing Beijing working both inside and outside established structures, depending on what is most conducive to their goals,” said Yeh.The ultimate goal is achieving the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation also known as the Chinese Dream – a vision closely associated with President Xi since his early days in office. The Chinese Dream represents Beijing’s quest to regain its prestige – damaged in the ‘Century of Humiliation’ by the imperial powers in the late 19th and early 20th century – and turn China into an advanced, world-leading nation by 2049. This includes developing China internally but also expanding the territory under the PRC into areas currently beyond its direct control that are nonetheless considered inalienable parts of the Chinese nation. This includes disputed territory along the land border with India and Bhutan, the Senkaku islands (that China calls Diaoyudao) administered by Japan in the East China Sea as well as most of the South China Sea where Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam have rival claims. Above all else, however, China’s rejuvenation means unification with Taiwan and Beijing has not ruled out the use of force to achieve this goal. When the Chinese military conducts large-scale exercises around Taiwan or when Chinese vessels intercept ships from other countries in the South China Sea, Beijing argues these are not breaches of China’s international pledges but examples of China upholding sovereignty over territory that rightfully belongs to the Chinese nation. national sovereignty, foreign interference in other nations’ affairs and the unilateral use of economic sanctions. But at the same time, it reserves the right to look past international rulings that go against it – such as the 2016 international court ruling that its historic claim to the South China Sea had “no legal basis” – and take action against those perceived to stand between Beijing and its path towards national rejuvenation. When Lithuania in 2021 allowed the opening of a “Taiwan Representative Office” rather than the usual “Taipei Economic and Cultural Office” in Vilnius, Beijing was furious. Seeing such a naming convention as encouraging Taiwanese independence, it imposed severe economic sanctions on the Baltic state. But even as Beijing touts “non-interference” for itself and others, it has itself been accused of engaging in interference abroad. In Canada, a leaked intelligence report revealed in early May that Chinese authorities had allegedly been involved in an intimidation campaign against a Canadian MP and his family in Hong Kong after he sponsored a successful motion declaring the Chinese treatment of the Uighurs a genocide. Previous Canadian intelligence leaks have led to allegations that Beijing attempted to interfere in the Canadian general elections of 2019 and 2021 to secure the defeat of anti-Beijing candidates. Chinese diplomatic staff have also been accused of election interference in Denmark, while consular staff in Manchester, England’s second-biggest city, were accused of employing physical violence to disrupt a demonstration outside the Chinese consulate. In all these cases, Chinese officials have denied engaging in any sort of tampering, claiming instead that forces with “hidden agendas” were “fabricating lies” to “smear” China. At the same time, the Chinese government says it reserves the right to defend its sovereignty and act against those that attempt to interfere in China’s domestic matters. As Xi allegedly told US President Biden regarding US engagement with Taiwan during a phone call last year: “Those that play with fire get burned.” https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/6/6/living-the-chinese-dream-beijings-new-world-order

In this classic feature, Jim Rossignol took a long bath in Blood Money and declared it an excellent puzzle game as well as a stealth one. We're digging into the PC Gamer archives to publish pieces from years gone by. This article was originally published in 2007. There's something on my mind. This being a Hitman retrospective, you might think that thing would be murder, but actually it's puzzles. You see, it seems to me that each level of a Hitman game is essentially a giant, evolving puzzle. This is a game less about the act of taking a life, or the grisly excitement of electronically simulated violence, and more about not causing a commotion in a volatile situation. Murdering a porn baron and his son in their palace, killing a gang of thugs on their Mississippi steamer—these are not your average deathmatch escapades. Often, all you'll have is a garotte and a syringe—but then quiet strangulation or poisoning is always better than a shotgun. Bombs have their place, but I'd rather use a silenced pistol. Keep things quiet, and the puzzle unravels. Cause upset, and this Rubik's Deathtrap becomes ever more convoluted, until there's no way out. There are only so many times you can make a wrong move in Agent 47's world, and you can't expect to be able to kill all the guards. But making a wrong move is often the best thing you can do: you see exactly how things come apart, and often collapse your house of cards into a quagmire of slapstick slaughter. Hitman is a game in which the replay isn't simply a denouncement of your failure, but the gradual, careful examination of the possibilities, the parameters of your perfect kill. Blood Money, above all the other Hitman games, seems to have grasped what it is that makes a good puzzle. Not all of the levels quite hit their mark and some are far too easy, but occasionally there's a glimpse of unmitigated brilliance. Whatever the scenario, they are a toolbox: one in which you must be imaginative. Take, for example, the carnival level, in which you must protect a canvassing politician from assassins. Assassins dressed as chickens. You might think they stand out in a crowd but as it happens, Blood Money's crowd—the most realistic I've ever seen in a videogame—is full of folks with chicken hats. It's kind of a carnival theme. Suddenly the puzzle becomes a little trickier. You're faced with getting people alone, in a situation where there are potentially hundreds of witnesses. Best dress as a chicken, eh? Then there's the sanatorium. There are so many ways into this that the challenge becomes one of monitoring the patients' habits and waiting for the time to strike. The obvious way in is to simply be admitted as a patient, but you could just as easily pick a lock on a side door, murder a guard, and use his identity to get through the building. Smuggling your agent buddy out of there can be a little tricky, but if it comes to the worst you can usually shoot your way out. Not that you'd want to, of course. Would you really be playing the game if you did that? Would you really be an artisan, a master of the puzzle? There are so many options. The remote mine, the wedding present, the dogs, the sniper rifle secreted in nearby buildings... Blood Money is, like all the great puzzle games, about bettering yourself. You're not just completing the game, you're doing so with style. Also—as if you needed another reason to go back and dig it out—there is no other game to which, while playing, you can respond to the question "what are you up to?" with the answer: "I'm waiting in the road until the clown comes out of the house. Then I'll strangle him, put on his clothes, and put him in the boot of his own van." At which point your girlfriend leaves your cup of tea and backs away rather too quickly. https://www.pcgamer.com/i-never-get-tired-of-hitman-blood-moneys-inventiveness/

WWDC 2023 is set to begin today, and the Cupertino company will begin its annual Worldwide Developers Conference with a keynote event that typically showcases the company's software advancements and updates to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. This year, the iPhone maker is also reportedly planning to unveil Apple Reality Pro, its first mixed reality headset, that will run on a new xrOS operating system and feature both augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. The company is also tipped to launch new Mac models during the WWDC presentation. WWDC 2023 keynote livestream timings, how to watch online Apple has announced that the WWDC keynote event will begin at 10am PT (10:30pm IST) today, at Apple Park in California. The in-person event will also be livestreamed via the Apple.com website and YouTube. The keynote can also be viewed from the Apple TV app and the Apple Developer app. You can also watch the livestream from the player embedded below.details of iOS 17, iPadOS 17, macOS 14, tvOS 17, and watchOS 10 at the keynote event. The company is also rumoured to show off its highly anticipated Apple Reality Pro mixed reality headset today. Apple may also announce new MacBook and Mac Pro models at the event, according to recent reports. While Apple hasn't announced any plans to launch a mixed reality headset, several leaks and rumours have suggested that the company is preparing to launch a device that uses both AR and VR technology and runs on a new xrOS operating system. It is said to bear a $3,000 (roughly Rs. 2,47,500) price tag and feature high-resolution Micro OLED displays with over 5,000 nits of peak brightness and could be powered by an externally attached battery pack. According to recent reports, iOS 17 will allow an iPhone to turn into a smart display when connected to a charger. The update is also expected to bring features aimed at mental wellbeing, including a journaling app. The company's Wallet and Health apps are also tipped to get a fresh coat of paint. iOS 17 is also expected to be the first version of the operating system that allows customers to install applications outside the App Store, a functionality that is expected to be enabled in the EU. Meanwhile, watchOS 10 is expected to introduce major design changes, including a new widget-focussed interface that displays even more information at a glance without moving around the interface. Unlike iOS 17 and watchOS 10, there aren't many reports to suggest major changes headed to Apple's operating systems for Mac, iPad, and Apple TV. Instead, these updates could bring incremental feature updates and tweaks to improve performance and user experience on these devices. New Mac hardware Apple is said to be planning to announce new Mac models during its WWDC presentation. These include a new 15-inch MacBook Air that is powered by an M2 chip. We can also expect to see a new Mac Pro model, the first one in the series to be powered by an Apple Silicon chip, and the first update to the powerful computer that was announced at WWDC 2019 https://www.gadgets360.com/mobiles/news/wwdc-2023-livestream-timings-apple-reality-pro-headset-ios-17-ipados-macos-14-watchos-tvos-macboook-mac-launch-expected-4094541

New button in File Explorer adds your smartphone snaps to the photo gallery Windows 11 has just got a new preview version in the Dev channel which adds some smart features, principally the ability to view your phone photos right on the desktop. As you may recall, a big project in testing right now for Windows 11 is the revamp of File Explorer, part of which is the addition of a photo gallery feature. What Microsoft has done here is to introduce a new button that lets users add their phone photos to the gallery. Click the ‘Add Phone Photos’ button and you’ll be given a QR code to scan with your smartphone, then you can set up the device to pipe photos across and view those mobile snaps in Windows 11’s photo gallery. There’s other work on File Explorer elsewhere in preview build 23471, including some bug fixes, and another feature introduction – the ability to pop tabs out of windows (or merge them back), as you can with a web browser. Note that the latter feature is an incremental rollout, so not every Windows Insider will see it yet. Microsoft did announce, though, that every tester in the Dev channel will now have the photo gallery in File Explorer (which has been a phased rollout, too, but one that’s now finished). For the full details of all the fixes and tinkering in preview build 23471, as ever you can immerse yourself in Microsoft’s lengthy blog post. The further work on File Explorer is welcome, and particularly the functionality allowing you to view phone photos right there on the Windows 11 desktop with a minimum of hassle. There’s some interesting timing here – though no doubt coincidental – as well, in that as Microsoft is introducing this new feature, Apple has just announced that its My Photo Stream offering is being shuttered. (It’s now effectively on the chopping block, and will be shut down at the end of July). Now, that might be an old service, and one not used much anymore, but it’ll still be something of a blow when it finally shuts it doors for the diehard set of niche Mac owners who still use My Photo Stream to view their phone photos on the desktop. Of course, as Apple points out, My Photo Stream has been long been superseded by ‌iCloud Photos‌, and you should turn that on instead. But some folks haven’t set up iCloud Photos‌ because they don’t want to (enjoying just seeing recent snaps automatically on their Mac, courtesy of Photo Stream, without having to sync an entire – possibly huge – photo library to iCloud). There’s also the fact that ‌iCloud Photos‌ requires payment (beyond the 5GB that you get free, a rather measly allowance these days), and some aren’t happy about that, either – and the apparent financial motive for Apple to make this move. At any rate, whatever your view of how redundant or pointless My Photo Stream is at this point – indeed, you may never even have heard of it – the fact remains that Apple is taking away one path for easily viewing your phone photos on the desktop (that at least some folks still use), while Microsoft is going in the opposite direction and adding one. https://www.techradar.com/news/windows-11-gets-ability-to-view-phone-photos-just-as-apple-cans-a-similar-feature-for-macs

Heavily vented quadruped PC with VESA screen mounting supports GPUs up to three slots thick and 12.8 inches long. Danish PC maker eBlaztr showcased the latest version of its “portable gaming desktop” at Computex. PC enthusiasts, gamers and DIYers have traditionally steered away from all-in-one PC designs. However, eBlaztr’s product with its excellent configurability, upgradability, portability, and capable cooling could help it shift some units. Akihabara PC noticed the eBlaztr on display in a corner of the Seasonic Booth - which must be a low-budget route to “try and disrupt the gaming hardware industry.” The Japanese tech journal got some of the latest info on configurations, which we will summarize below. Before we go further, please note that all the configurations, even the chassis on its own, are only available for pre-order right now, as the first batch has already sold out. For true PC DIY builders, the barebone chassis looks quite decent, with a not-exorbitant price of $349. This offers the essence of the eBlaztr, as in the bullet points below: Chassis: 626 wide, 402mm high, 80mm deep, weight 6.8kg. Retractable legs extend by pressing a button on the side grips. Monitors: screens attach to the case using a 100 x 100mm VESA mount. Monitors up to 24.5-inches are supported. Max compatibility: GPUs up to 3-slots thick and 325mm in length. Also, you will need to choose a mini ITX motherboard and SFX power supply.eBlaztr mentions the 6.8kg unpo[CENSORED]ted weight in its specs, but estimates that a typical working system with attached monitor and other essential components will weigh about 11.6kg. Also sold-out at the eBlaztr store are pre-built versions called the eBlaztr Office PC ($1,299), eBlaztr LAN Edition ($2,345), and the eBlaztr Beast ($7,200). The office machine wields an Intel Core i5-11400 and relies on integrated graphics. Moving up to the LAN Edition, you have the same processor (F version) plus a GeForce RTX 3060 Ti GPU. Meanwhile, the Beast mixes a Core i9-12900KS with a GeForce RTX 3090 Ti Gaming X Trio. Check the product pages for finer details, like the cooling solutions used, RAM and storage devices. The eBlaztr product pages tout the systems’ luggability (about 11.6kg, remember), highlight the speedy desktop components that can be used, and provide more information about the build. Compared with traditional AiOs, we think it is important to mention the cooling options here. Full-size and full-power desktop parts are used, so cooling is extremely important. For the GPU, if you pick a model with a good cooler it should be fine, as the back of the eBlaztr is highly perforated. Connected via a PCIe Gen4 riser cable, your GPU fans will exhaust all heat straight out of the back, without much obstruction. As for your CPU, various solutions are viable, with the eBlaztr Beast, for example, employing the Noctua NH-L9i Chromax LP cooler. https://www.tomshardware.com/news/eblaztr-aio-computex-2023

All species experience the bodily changes of puberty, but the social lessons that define the shift from childhood to adulthood are more nuanced. Looking back on our teenage years often elicits a grimace — it's an awkward time, full of social faux pas, uncertainty and acne — but it's one that we all must pass through on our way to adulthood. But do other animals also experience adolescence? This period of life comprises both physiological and social changes. Unquestionably, other animals experience puberty, the cascade of hormonal and physiological changes that enable mating. But researchers such as Dr. Barbara Natterson-Horowitz, a cardiologist and evolutionary biologist at the University of California, Los Angeles, and Harvard University, argue that most, if not all, animals experience a period of adolescence too — what Natterson-Horowitz calls "wildhood" — that also includes the social shifts that youngsters must navigate as they transition into adulthood.For a long time, adolescence was thought to be unique to humans, Natterson-Horowitz told Live Science. "But the more you peel that back, the more you find that while there are certain aspects of adolescence that are uniquely human, that period of transition that starts with the onset of puberty and ends when a mature adult emerges — that's universal."Perhaps not surprisingly, in the species that are most closely related to us, such as chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), some of these changes are easily recognizable to humans. Aaron Sandel, a biological anthropologist and primatologist at the University of Texas at Austin, published a paper showing that young chimps experience a growth spurt that leaves them clumsy as they adjust to their new bodies. During adolescence, young Laysan albatross (Phoebastria immutabilis) learn intricate courtship behaviors by watching experienced adults and then practicing with their peers. — Barbara Natterson-Horowitz At the same time, these juveniles are learning to integrate into adult society. They begin spending less time with their parents and more time with their peers, including members of the opposite sex. Young male chimps aren't aggressive during this time, deferring instead to the guidance of older adult chimps that serve as mentors and teach them social cues. "It's a period where you're really attentive to what will give you status and you're really attentive to what it means to be an adult," Sandel said. But do these characteristics extend beyond our closest relatives? Indeed, scientists have documented forms of adolescence across the animal kingdom that highlight how common this period may be. Christine Ribic, a landscape ecologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, found that young grassland birds buck the "early bird gets the worm" trend and instead sleep late into the day, "mooching food off of their parents for as long as possible" before they finally go out on their own. Even after fledgling, young birds are not always self-sufficient. Other researchers have noted that, in challenging years, juvenile Gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua) return to their parents for help, mirroring a trend of young adults moving back in with their parents amid an economic downturn. Animal experiments have also demonstrated how juveniles become more tolerant of risk. Young rats raised on the same nutritious diet as their mothers will intentionally choose to eat less-tasty foods, or even ones that make them sick, to fit in with a group of peers, and adolescent mice drink more alcohol among peers than they do when alone. When in groups, many animals — including fish, gazelles and bats — engage in predator inspection, in which packs of juveniles intentionally approach a predator. This group think is the same reason new drivers usually aren't allowed to drive with their friends in the car for a period of time after getting their license. While we should be mindful of projecting our own biases and judgments onto other animals, probing these links between humans and their wild kin can be unifying and may help us navigate our own challenges, Natterson-Horowitz said. "It really is recognizing that whatever struggles you may be going through, there's an animal and an evolutionary story behind them — that actually, adolescence has a function," which is to help animals survive and thrive in adulthood," she said. "Their struggles are not exactly the same as humans', but there are some pretty remarkable similarities in what they're going through." https://www.livescience.com/animals/do-all-animals-go-through-adolescence

Physical impairments don't stop drivers from a day at the track, with a small but growing number of programs offering adaptive equipment—even on cars like a McLaren 650S, Lamborghini Gallardo, or Nissan GT-R. A day at the track is not limited to the able-bodied anymore. Performance driving programs are out there for people with disabilities. The use of unique controls can open up new possibilities for people with restricted arm or leg movement or visual impairment. In the world of racing, drivers with limited mobility have been participating—and excelling—in Esports as well as on real-world racing teams. A track day full of low-slung, loud, and exuberant supercars is a dream come true for many car enthusiasts. In the past decade, supercar track experiences have become po[CENSORED]r and relatively common. Most major racetracks have a program for first-timers to get behind the wheel, either with their own cars or rented speed machines. Even better, some have instructors to help new drivers get acquainted with high-speed driving. For those with disabilities, these fun-run events can seem inaccessible, but there are people all around the world helping to make driving and even competing on track something that drivers with vision or mobility concerns can participate in. "Just because you have a physical disability or visual impairment, it does not mean experiences like this should be unavailable to you, and we want as many [people] as possible to be able to enjoy driving a supercar around a track," explained Dan Jones of Driving Experience Days Limited in the U.K. Driving Experience Days Limited has partnered with a leading disability organization, AbleNet, to provide several high-performance adapted courses for those with restricted arm and leg movement, as well as people who are visually impaired or blind, bringing the joy of motoring to more drivers. The cars involved have been specially adapted with unique controls to make them more usable by those with limited mobility. A common modification is to the steering wheel, an addition called a steering ball that allows a car to be maneuvered with just one hand, even one with limited grip. This allows those unable to operate the traditional pedals to operate the vehicles with hand controls. Many of the vehicles feature an automatic gearbox as well, with the roster of rides including the Aston Martin DB9, McLaren 650S, Lamborghini Gallardo, Ferrari California, Nissan GT-R, and Audi R8. Even visually impaired drivers can take a spin in these supercars, with the help and guidance of a trainer. Those programs are both outside the U.S. for now, but there's a nonprofit called Adaptive Driving Experience that is currently putting the final touches to a U.S.-oriented program that is oriented toward military veterans. "We have a race car derived from the NASCAR Car of Tomorrow chassis that Brian Keselowski raced in the Daytona 500," director Danny Chrissanthis told C/D. "It's got a small-block Chevy that makes about 400 horsepower but features swivel chairs and adapted controls, as well as a second set of controls for the passenger." The idea is that a pro racer can coach the driver from the passenger seat, or take control and provide a hot lap. "We did all our modifications last year. We're just waiting on our helmets and fire suits so we can host bigger groups," explained Chrissanthis. The orders are in, so the program is set to start, but Adaptive Driving Experiences is just one of a few such programs in the U.S. Chrissanthis said they've contacted "various racetracks" about offering the program but that the response has been muted, with many saying the project just wouldn't make enough money to cover the costs. It's forced the organization to take a different approach. "I believe getting out on track and having people see that, watching the videos and how this experience impacts people will open doors and create more opportunities," he says. The goal of expanding these high-performance driving experiences and lessons to those with limited access is shared with a few other organizations, including automakers. In 2021, BMW and Mini expanded their Driving Experience program to include Safety Training for people with physical disabilities. The program includes lessons about braking, evasive maneuvers, slalom driving, driving the ideal line, and drifting. While Driving Experience Days Limited's program uses flashy supercars, the BMW 230i, BMW M3, and Mini John Cooper Works the BMW program uses have slightly different controls. Rather than use the ball, the BMW and Mini cars retrofit the steering wheel with a ring that acts as the throttle. This allows a user with limited lower-body mobility to accelerate without taking their hands off the wheel. These cars also have a hand-operated brake lever, to help users get control of the 510-hp M3 on track. "Driving is self-determination and thus also a kind of freedom," says instructor Bettina Schmidt-Kiendl in a news release by the automaker. Schmid-Kiendl uses a wheelchair and is an active driver. "With the new program, we want to give people with comparable disabilities the joy of driving that I also live every day." Racing Academies and Motorsports Competitive drivers with disabilities have the opportunity to take their speeds to the big leagues. Team BRIT Racing is a sports-car team with a team of disabled drivers that participates in the British GT Championship, British Endurance Championship, Britcar Trophy, and Citroën C1 Series. Conceived in 2015, the racing team offers a racing academy for those with disabilities. There’s also an eSports team competing in Gran Turismo, iRacing, Assetto Corsa, and rFactor 2—and several of its drivers have secured podium finishes. Racing is a different beast than track experiences, so Team BRIT Racing has developed a bespoke hand control system to operate the steering, brakes, clutch, throttle, and gearbox of its cars and racing sims. The Motorsport U.K.-approved system is how the team can compete against able-bodied racers in a variety of motorsports. With plans to race in the Le Mans 24-hour endurance race, the racing team has already delivered impressive finishes in the Britcar Trophy and Britcar Endurance GT4 ProAM, among others. Accessibility for the Win Support for disabled drivers and advancements in this field don't just benefit young enthusiasts who don't want their disabilities to keep them from the cockpit. Racing remains dangerous, and accidents often leave formerly able-bodied racers unable to compete. Rising IndyCar star Robert Wickens suffered a violent crash in the 2018 ABC Supply 500 at Pocono Raceway, which left him with limited use of his legs. Wickens (pictured at top) returned to racing in 2022 in the 2022 Michelin Pilot Challenge with Bryan Herta Autosport behind the wheel of the #33 Hyundai Elantra N with specially adapted hand controls. He quickly found success with BHA, scoring a podium with teammate Mark Wilkins in his first race at Daytona, and winning at Watkins Glen International and Canadian Tire Motorsports Park. He finished his first season in sixth place in the 2022 TCR championship and is continuing in 2023. Perspective is everything: accessibility may seem like a niche concern to most motorists, but expanding the world of motorsports and speed to those with different abilities is a win for everyone. If everyone can enjoy driving, then we can have more fun on the roads and tracks together. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a44004446/drivers-with-disabilities-performance-driving/

Rhododendron, a native species of the Himalayas, is a beautiful, often evergreen flowering tree or shrub that thrives in alpine and temperate climates. In the picturesque hilly terrains of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Sikkim in India, the vibrant blossoms of rhododendron signal the arrival of spring. Notably, Kohima in Nagaland (the Japfu Peak) boasts the distinction of being home to the tallest rhododendron tree in the world. Meanwhile, the enchanting Rhododendron Arboreum, locally known as ‘Burans/Buransh,’ adorns these regions with varying pink, red, and occasionally white hues. However, it’s important to note that the stunning purple/ mauve variety, the Rhododendron Pontica, found in certain European countries and the UK, threatens biodiversity as it is invasive and toxic.In recognition of its cultural, geographical, and ecological significance, Rhododendron Arboreum, or ‘Buransh,’ is designated as Uttarakhand’s state tree and Nagaland’s state flower. The pink rhododendron or Rhododendron Campanulatum, also known as ‘gulabi buransh,’ is the state flower of Himachal Pradesh. Similarly, Rhododendron Niveum, locally known as ‘hiunpatay guransh,’ is honoured as the state tree of Sikkim.Rhododendrons are visually stunning and have immense utility and potential in sustainable livelihoods because they provide alternative economic opportunities to rural and forest communities. For instance, the Himachal Pradesh State Rural Livelihoods Mission actively supports and encourages the Buransh value chain in the food processing industry by engaging farmers and local people. The petals of Buransh flowers, or the species Rhododendron Arboreum, are widely used in the production of squash, jellies, jams, and pickles. The blooming of Buransh in the valleys of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh during March-April sees active engagement from both men and women in the harvest of these blossoms.Among the wide varieties, it is essential to note that this Rhododendron Arboreum, or the edible Buransh, is bright red and easily recognised during spring. After the flowers are collected, they undergo sun-drying. After removing the flower’s stamen and stigma, the petals of the red flowers are separated. The petals have a particularly tangy and sour taste, making them a sought-after ingredient in various indigenous recipes, including flavourful chutneys. The sun-dried petals are also used in tea infusions, Buransh chai, pakoras, and a speciality known as ‘Kachru’ that is prepared with vegetables like spinach. In Rishikesh and other parts of Uttarakhand, many hotels and resorts offer Buransh sherbet as a refreshing welcome drink, providing direct support to the local livelihoods that depend on cultivating and utilizing these remarkable flowers. In some regions of the world, beautiful non-toxic rhododendron flowers are used in making incense, candles, and essential oils, making their applications relevant to the aroma industry. Jasleen Kaur, a dietitian, nutritionist, and founder of Just Diet, says buransh also has massive potential in detox products, and its edible portions can be used to prepare detox water and teas. The edible rhododendrons are rich in antioxidants, help fight inflammation, and have enormous applications in homoeopathy and herbal medicines. The petals are also distinctly recognised for their flavour and as a masala/spice.Forest departments are exploring the economic potential of these flowers by strengthening forest-based livelihoods. The flower has immense potential in food processing and alternate agricultural, forest-based livelihoods, empowering self-help groups and farmers, particularly women. In addition, schemes such as the PM Van Dhan Yojana and the supply chain support through Van Dhan Vikas Kendras can play a pivotal role with rural livelihood schemes such as the Deen Dayal Antoyada Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission, just as they have been supporting a rare Himalayan species called the seabuckthorn and the value chain around it.Buransh in India has the potential to create floral tourism opportunities taking after Japan’s cherry blossom tourism industry. Toward this, worldwide, nature walks are organised to celebrate the rhododendron flower. In Kausani, Uttarakhand, the Buransh Mahotsav is organised annually, celebrating Uttarakhand’s rich folklore. Similarly, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew have a particular alley called the Rhododendron Dell. According to the Kew Gardens website, it was Sir Joseph Hooker who brought back many new rhododendron specimens from his travels to the Himalayas in the mid-19th century. At Kew, the calming and peaceful ‘Maharani’ white rhododendron and rare orange and yellow flowers steal the show. Such efforts boost eco-tourism worldwide, particularly sustainable rural tourism in economies that need to scale up.A word of caution, however. Buransh flowers face threats and are endangered in various regions, including India. Anthropogenic factors, rampant development projects, urbanisation, climate change challenges, and global warming jeopardise their survival. For instance, this year, rhododendrons have been observed blooming prematurely in many locations, posing significant threats to biodiversity. In response to these alarming circumstances, numerous conservation efforts must be implemented to safeguard the future of rhododendrons and ensure their long-term survival. https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/rhododendron-floral-blend-beauty-flavourful-delights-wellness-8644325/

At the train station in the eastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro, attendants in smart, traditional uniforms help passengers down the steep carriage steps. Despite Russia's full-scale invasion, the trains here have never stopped running for the millions who rely on them. We board and take a journey people are being urged to avoid - to the last stop before the eastern front line. As we weave past the protruding feet that line the stuffy sleeper carriage, it becomes clear this isn't just a route to the battlefield. Yes, there are soldiers. Most look out of the window - you wonder what they're thinking about. Viktoria is heading back to the town of Pokrovsk with her baby Eva. The 20-year-old tells us she's had enough of avoiding the war, but isn't without worries. "I have to overcome them somehow," she says. "It's impossible to live like this, wandering everywhere. We have to make it work at home." Since February last year, Viktoria has travelled across Ukraine and Slovakia in an attempt to keep her and her daughter safe. After three hours of weaving through the rich green of Ukraine's countryside, we arrive in Pokrovsk and Viktoria is greeted by the husband she left behind. "I'm overwhelmed," says Serhiy, who was waiting patiently on the platform with a bunch of flowers. "I'm very glad to see my beautiful daughter and wife. I just want us to sit, cuddle, chat and that's it." Arrivals like this are part of a broader trend in Ukraine. After the devastating scenes of departure of last year, six million Ukrainians have since returned to their country. Of those, thousands are moving back to their homes across the 600-mile (965km) front line, where the threat of a Russian attack remains. Serhiy is one of many who stayed in Pokrovsk for his job at the local coal mine - an industry ingrained in the Donetsk region's DNA, and a major employer here. Not only has it led to thousands staying, but it's also enticing people back with the offer of new jobs. In the early hours, miners move with urgency to shuttle buses that take them to the mine shaft. Even once they're 800m (2,600ft) underground, it can take them up to an hour to walk to where they need to be. Volodymyr has worked here for 20 years. Stuffed down the front of his overalls is his packed lunch. They call their food "tormozok" in these parts, which refers to the emergency brake on the mine shaft. He and some colleagues are protected from mobilisation because their roles are seen as critical. For Volodymyr, going to work is a balance between personal safety and simple economics. He must earn a living. "When you go underground, you don't know what's happening above with the family. I'm often very worried." Pokrovsk's po[CENSORED]tion is gradually rising, after dropping by two-thirds last year from 65,000. Svitlana, who works in the station control room, said when the war began in 2022 it was "like an apocalypse - I had never seen so many people leave". Now it's become a destination for those escaping Russian occupation and fighting. It's a town very much on a war footing. The streets are filled with an even mix of civilians and soldiers. This area has seen war since the onset of Russia's aggression nine years ago. Another attraction is the restoration of power and water by local officials, despite their warnings for people to stay away. Pokrovsk is still comfortably in range of Russian multiple-rocket launcher systems (MRLS). Scars around the town remind you of their indiscriminate threat. On the outskirts of Pokrovsk, closer to Russia's occupation, you find the town's last line of defence. Soldiers from the territorial defence keep a watchful eye towards the faint sounds of artillery. Their dutiful actions are allowing people to move back into harm's way, and there seems to be sympathy in the trenches. "Some are saving their children, some stay because it's their homeland," says Vyacheslav. "If you have to die, it's better to die in your motherland than somewhere abroad." A couple of days later we rejoin Serhiy, Viktoria and Eva at their flat. Watching them play with their daughter is a picture of innocence. "Who knows when it will become safe here?" asks Serhiy. "Maybe a year? Two? Or five? "We don't want to wait five years, or even one year." They've clearly made peace with their decision to stay as a family, despite the obvious risks. A move not just out of defiance, but from an acceptance, too, that this war won't end soon. Additional reporting by Hanna Chornous and Siobhan Leahy. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-65778235

industry's big-budget beefy-boys have missed, the kind of games that explore genres and styles that have fallen out of fashion because someone in marketing said they were irrelevant, or that explore ideas too "out there" to explain to the C-suite.Or the best indie games could be the ones that are the most personal—that reveal something intimate about their developers and make us feel the kind of human connection you don't get in games made by gigantic anonymous teams. They might even let us recognize something of ourselves, and learn that something we thought was freakish is actually a shared experience, helping us feel less alone. Or they might highlight a viewpoint we hadn't considered, explaining why someone we disagree with feels the way they do and expanding our understanding of the world. This list of the best indie games on PC contains games of all those kinds of games, across all kinds of genres. You'll find indie open world games as well as indie metroidvanias, and relaxing, cozy indie games. And now that the semantic satiation is setting in, you'll have come to realize that the word "indie" doesn't really mean anything, and all games are beautiful no matter what label we apply to them. Wait, hang on a second. It just means "independent" and describes games that were made without outside interference. Now that's settled, on with the list. https://www.pcgamer.com/best-indie-games/

Samsung launched the Galaxy S23 series earlier this year in February. While the flagship phones come with an enhanced camera experience, several Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S23+ users have reported a camera blur issue in close-up shots. Now, Samsung, too, has confirmed the issue on its community page for Europe. The company said that a fix to this problem via a software update is on the way. The South Korean firm has also explained the reason behind the issue as well as the workaround to prevent the blurring. Samsung via its community page has confirmed that the area around the subject looks a bit blurry in close-up shots taken from the Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S23+. The company also explained that the rear wide-angle camera on the S23 and S23+ has a bright aperture, which makes the background of the photos look a bit blurry. Samsung has said that the issue will be fixed via a software update. Meanwhile, Samsung has also shared some workaround ways to fix the camera blur issue on the Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S23+. Samsung has recommended users take a picture from a slightly greater distance or hold the phone vertically while taking pictures. It has added that holding the phone horizontally or obliquely can make the background appear blurry.Samsung launched the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra earlier this year in February. The Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S23+ share many similarities, including a 6.6-inch full-HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a refresh rate spanning from 48Hz to 120Hz and a touch sampling rate of 240Hz in game mode. Both phones are powered by a modified version of Qualcomm's latest chipset i.e., Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy. For optics, the phones ship with a triple rear camera setup comprising a 50-megapixel primary wide-angle sensor, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 10-megapixel telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. The phones also have a 12-megapixel selfie camera. https://www.gadgets360.com/mobiles/news/samsung-s23-plus-camera-blur-issue-confirmed-update-fix-galaxy-4091686

Microsoft has announced that it’s killing off Cortana, at least in Windows, where the assistant will be dropped in the not-so-distant future. Windows Central reported on Microsoft’s revelation that the Cortana app will no longer be supported in Windows late in 2023 (as tipped by @Perbylund on Twitter). However, the aged assistant will still remain in other Microsoft services, including various bits of Microsoft Teams and Outlook mobile, so Cortana hasn’t entirely been binned. As for Windows 11, though, you won’t be needing Cortana anyway, because as Microsoft reminds us, the operating system already has elements in place to replace the digital assistant.For voice controls, there’s now a comprehensive Voice Access feature which Microsoft has been beavering away honing considerably of late. And for queries and assistance, naturally there’s the new Bing AI (ChatGPT-powered bot) on tap, plus there’s something bigger in the pipeline – Copilot. In case you missed it (somehow), Microsoft recently revealed it’s bringing Copilot to Windows 11 to sit at the heart of the operating system, offering help with whatever you’re doing.While Copilot isn’t here yet, the AI will be far more extensive in terms of its scope than Cortana. When it comes to assistance with doing stuff in Windows 11, it’ll not just tell you about useful features for any given task, but offer to automatically enable them if needed. Copilot can also summarize a Word document, for example, Bing AI-style, and its far more wide-ranging skills and utility make Cortana irrelevant as a result. Just on that basis, it’s no surprise to see Microsoft giving Cortana the elbow from Windows. Indeed, with Cortana getting cut off late in 2023, that perhaps is a further suggestion that this is when Copilot will step up to be incorporated in Windows 11 – perhaps with the 23H2 update? We know Copilot will be in Windows 11 preview builds this month (or at least that’s what Microsoft has told us), so it seems everything is all lining up. Although there’s always a chance that Copilot is such a big feature addition, Microsoft may want to save it for next-gen Windows (Windows 12, maybe) which is set to arrive next year (rumor has it). Whatever the case, Cortana is not exactly going to be missed outside a niche of users, at least in Windows, anyway. As a digital assistant, rather than being an all-rounder, Microsoft had already angled Cortana more to business-related use (hence Cortana remaining in Teams and so forth after being ditched from Windows). So, none of this is a shock, and it just makes sense for Microsoft to eject Cortana with Copilot now incoming for Windows 11. https://www.techradar.com/news/microsoft-says-its-curtains-for-cortana-in-windows-11-and-10-but-thats-no-surprise

Today at Amazon, users can find Western Digital’s WD Black 1TB SN850X for its lowest price to date. It’s been going for around $100 lately but right now it’s discounted to just $77 which takes the price down to about 8 cents per GB. This is a notably fast SSD suitable for everyday use and as well as gaming. We reviewed the WD Black SN850X when it launched mid of last year and recognized it as one of the fastest SSDs on the market for gaming. Overall, it has exceptional performance. Our biggest con was the price — given today's discount, that con is easily set aside making this offer worth a look. The WD Black 1TB SN850X has an M.2 2280 form factor. It’s compatible with PCIe 4.0 x4 interfaces and uses 112-Layer BiCS5 TLC flash memory. The controller is a WD proprietary controller. This gaming SSD can reach read/write speeds as high as 7300/6300 Mbps.The drive is also supported by a good warranty from Western Digital. Users can take advantage of a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty that voids should the drive reach 600 TBW. It’s also backed by Amazon’s 30-day return policy.Visit the WD Black 1TB SN850X SSD product page at Amazon for more details and purchase options. We’re not sure for how long this discount will be made available. https://www.tomshardware.com/news/wd-black-1tb-sn850x-drops-to-just-dollar77-at-amazon